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10 Reasons Why Your Car Key Is Not Working
We've all experienced a day like that. You're in a hurry to get someplace, and when you try to start or unlock your car, you notice that your car key isn't functioning. When you are locked out of your automobile, your mind is racing to attempt to figure out why this is happening. Sometimes the answer will come to you quickly, while other times, it may take some time to find out what the problem is. We've all been there. Therefore, it's a suffering we can all relate to.
Before delving into the aforesaid potential reasons, it's also a good idea to know what sort of car key you have since you'll need that information if you call a car or locksmith service.
Types Of Car Keys
To determine the source of your problem, you must first understand the sort of car key you have and how it functions with your vehicle. There is a widespread assumption that all vehicle keys are the same; after all, they are all used to drive automobiles, so they must be, right? Regrettably, no.
Although automobile keys and door locks are similar in many ways, they are all extremely different, which is why bump keys do not work on cars. This is why it is critical to understand the type of vehicle key you have so that you can correctly evaluate why your car key is not working.
Traditional Car Keys
Traditional car keys are remarkably similar to your house locks. They are made of a single piece of metal with a sequence of cuts to match a certain lock. If you cut a key that looks just like your key, it will start your car and open all the locks. You won't have a problem unless the key breaks, the grooves wear down, or the lock cylinders fail.
If you have traditional automobile keys
· A single length of exposed metal serves as the key.
· The thumb turn has no plastic protection.
· The key is not linked to the remote control.
Transponder Car Keys
A transponder key simply implies that your automobile is now more securely associated with your key. A transmitter buried into the key communicates with a receiver installed within the car. In order for the automobile to start, the transmitter and receiver must exchange a sequence of signals that act as confirmation that the correct key is in position.
You most likely have transponder keys if
· The thumb turn is protected by a plastic cover.
· The key is linked to the remote control.
· An immobilizer is used in the vehicle (unlikely in pre-1990s models).
Keyless Entry Fobs
Keyless entry fobs resemble little remote controls, with each button eliciting action from your vehicle. Because these entry remotes are keyless, the key communicates with your vehicle. This procedure is identical to that described above with transponder keys; however, instead of a key and ignition cylinder, most of these cars employ push buttons.
You likely have keyless entry fobs if
· The ignition is turned on with a push.
· There is no key made of metal.
· There is no ignition cylinder with a key.
Now let's go over the most common reasons why your car key
Reasons Why Your Car Key Is Not Working
Damaged Car Key
A broken automobile key can be caused by a variety of factors, including natural wear and tear. If you see visible damage to your key, it may need to be replaced. A locksmith service can assist you with this. However, be certain that you only contact a reputable repair provider that specializes in your automobile type or brand. If you own a Mercedes, for example, choose someone who specializes in Mercedes vehicle key replacement.
Signs Of A Damaged Car Key
· The key does not unlock any locks or start the vehicle.
· Other methods can be used to open the locks.
· A new or lightly used spare key works properly.
Damaged Car Lock
As previously stated, it is not always a fault with the key that causes it to cease operating. Because the lock is damaged, the automobile door may not open with your key. The lock may not spin, you may be able to open one door but not the other, and you may be unable to properly enter the key. If you don't know how to repair a damaged door lock, a locksmith firm can assist you because these professionals specialize in locks and keys.
Signs Of A Damaged Car Lock
· The keyway is impeded or blocked (you cannot fully insert the key).
· The key will only unlock one of the locks
· The key turns, but the lock does not open.
Faulty Ignition Cylinder
Your ignition system is much more than simply your ignition chamber; it also comprises a variety of additional systems like switches, batteries, circuits, and other components, all of which are activated when you turn the key.
A Broken Ignition Lock Cylinder Can Cause:
· The vehicle will not start.
· Concerns about power
· The car keys got stuck
· Unfortunately, these problems frequently necessitate a trip to the mechanic!
Blockage
Damage isn't the only thing that can prevent locks from operating; obstructions can also prevent your keys from fitting.
For example, Melbourne car locksmiths may remove your lock to clean dirt and debris - but don't use WD40 or start poking around with a wire, as these might actually make the obstruction worse!
Worn Out Fob Key Batteries
Another reason your vehicle keys may not be working is if the batteries in your key fob or keyless entry remote have run out of power.
If you discover that your car is not responding to orders and signals transmitted from your key fob, the batteries are most likely dead. However, bear in mind that this isn't the only reason your key fob isn't working. When you notice your car key isn't functioning because the key fob batteries have worn out, the easy answer is to obtain the correct batteries and replace them. After that, your automobile key fob should be as good as new.
Signs of Worn-Out Fob Batteries
· The key fob works part of the time but not all of the time.
· The automobile key fob's buttons must be pushed many times.
· The car key fob no longer works from the prior distance.
Incorrectly Configured Remote Car Key
There might be an issue with the key's programming, causing it to malfunction. You may reprogram the key yourself, or if you don't know how, a
professional locksmith supplier can do it for you.
Signs A Car Key Has Not Been Programmed
· When the key is in the ignition, the immobilizer light illuminates.
· A key fob with new batteries will not unlock or lock the vehicle.
· You recently replaced the battery in your automobile.
Aftermath Car Keys
If you're using an aftermarket key rather than the original, this might be the root of your problems, causing the keys to malfunction. Aftermarket parts stores are excellent places to acquire inexpensive spare automobile components. However, unlike the original, they are not meant to function constantly in sync with your vehicle.
This also applies to a duplicate car key. Sure, it's useful if you're locked out of your car, but duplicate keys are only one of the apparent reasons why your automobile won't start.
Signs Of A Defective Aftermarket Car Key
· The key was never functional.
· The new automobile key is clearly distinguishable from the original.
· It is not possible to program the key.
Inappropriate Gear Settings
Turning the key in the ignition will not cause it to function if the gear is not put the park or neutral. You can adjust the gears or shake the stick to get the keys to operate properly. However, if the condition persists, you should consult with a professional since something else may require your attention.
Transponder Issues
Transponders are tiny miniature radio fobs that carry a unique code that they send to your vehicle and are included with almost all modern automobile keys. Your automobile will not start if the code is incorrect. If the key is alright, but the transponder isn't working, your car won't start!
You Might Be Using A Copied Key
Car key duplication is popular among drivers for a reason. Many individuals are unaware that each subsequent vehicle key replication diminishes fidelity. Bits of information are lost in the transmission every time a key is replicated. This implies that if you duplicate a duplicate automobile key, the result will be different from the original. An improperly duplicated key might cause problems straight away, but a copy of a copy of a copy is far worse.
Signs You Are Using A Poorly Copied Key
· A professional did not duplicate the key.
· The new automobile key performs worse than the previous one.
Last Thoughts
Car keys are an essential part of each driver's daily activities; therefore, having a broken key may be an expensive inconvenience. Reading through the items stated above will assist you in accurately diagnosing the cause of your car key not functioning. This should help you locate a solution quite fast. If you are unclear about what to do, always contact an automotive locksmith rather than messing up and risk damaging your key, lock, or ignition.